India to Introduce Electronic Observers for Sustainable Fisheries

Government of India will soon introduce an onboard electronic observer system for fishing vessels, aimed at improving marine data transparency and ensuring sustainable fisheries management.

Union Fisheries Secretary Abhilaksh Likhi announced the initiative while inaugurating a global workshop on species identification in Kochi, organized by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and the Fishery Survey of India (FSI).

The e-observer, being developed by FSI under the fisheries ministry, will enable remote monitoring and recording of marine fish catch, particularly tuna and tuna-like species. This will provide accurate scientific data for stock assessments and align India with IOTC guidelines, which mandate observer coverage and electronic monitoring.

“Science-backed credible data is India’s strongest defence against non-tariff barriers. It is the passport that secures our access to international markets and protects our fishers and exporters,” Likhi said.

Almost 36,000 fishing boats have already been fitted with transponders for real-time tracking under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). As tuna, pelagic sharks, and other migratory species cross boundaries, India has committed to regional and international cooperation in data gathering and management.

Experts also pointed fingers at the international system of tuna quotas, asking for more equitable distribution to developing countries such as India. The Director of CMFRI, Grinson George, highlighted the requirement for cold chain facilities to increase tuna export, maintaining quality, minimizing spoilage, and improving competitiveness for foreign markets.

The workshop in Kochi, which was attended by professionals from 12 nations such as Japan, France, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and South Africa, aims to enhance species identification and strong data systems for tuna and associated fisheries.